The construction of Yara Eyde, described as the world’s first ammonia-powered containership, has officially started in China. The milestone was marked by a steel cutting ceremony held on September 5, according to Yara Clean Ammonia, a producer and shipper of ammonia. The company stated that the event represents “a major step forward in maritime decarbonization.”

Yara Eyde is scheduled to enter service in 2026 and has been developed through collaboration between Yara Clean Ammonia, Yara International, CMB.TECH, and North Sea Container Line. The vessel is designed to operate on the Oslo–Porsgrunn–Bremerhaven–Rotterdam route, making it one of the first commercial containerships to run entirely on renewable ammonia.

In addition to its ammonia-based propulsion system, the ship will be equipped with a 250 kWh battery pack and will have the capability to connect to shore power. These features are expected to further improve energy efficiency and reduce emissions during port operations.

Ownership of the containership will rest with Delphis, the container division of CMB.TECH, while operations will be managed by NCL Oslofjord AS, a joint venture between North Sea Container Line and Yara Clean Ammonia. Commercial activities will be handled through NCL’s existing network, and Yara Clean Ammonia will be responsible for supplying the renewable ammonia fuel.

Hans Olav Raen, CEO of Yara Clean Ammonia, emphasized the significance of the project: “This is more than the start of a ship – it is the start of a new chapter in maritime decarbonization. Yara Eyde embodies our ambition to make low-emission ammonia a reality for shipping and to inspire the industry toward solutions that reduce emissions.”

Bente Hetland, CEO of North Sea Container Line, also underlined the importance of the collaboration: “North Sea Container Line has always sought to offer competitive and sustainable logistics solutions. Yara Eyde is a perfect example of how close collaboration across the value chain can bring cutting-edge technology into commercial operation and deliver tangible benefits for cargo owners and customers alike.”

The launch of Yara Eyde highlights ongoing efforts within the shipping industry to adopt cleaner fuels and reduce carbon footprints. By combining renewable ammonia propulsion with advanced energy management technologies, the vessel is expected to play a pioneering role in setting new standards for sustainable maritime transport.